Texas Constitution: Our State's Rules
Grade 5 Social Studies Learning About Our State Government
What is a Constitution?
A constitution is like a rulebook for government It tells leaders what they can and cannot do It protects the rights of all people Texas has its own constitution separate from the U.S. Constitution
History of Texas Constitutions
Why Did Texas Need a New Constitution in 1876?
The previous constitution gave too much power to the governor People wanted more local control Citizens wanted to limit government spending They wanted to protect individual rights better
Key Principles of the Texas Constitution
{"left":"Popular Sovereignty - People have the power\nLimited Government - Government can't do everything\nSeparation of Powers - Power is divided among branches","right":"Individual Rights - People's freedoms are protected\nFederalism - State and national governments share power\nChecks and Balances - Branches watch each other"}
Three Branches of Texas Government
Executive Branch - Led by the Governor Legislative Branch - Makes the laws (Texas Legislature) Judicial Branch - Interprets laws and runs courts Each branch has different jobs and powers
Match the Branch Activity
Can you match each job to the correct branch? Making a new law about school safety Deciding if a law is fair Signing a law to make it official Running a trial in court
Rights Protected by the Texas Constitution
Freedom of speech and religion Right to a fair trial Protection from unreasonable searches Right to bear arms Equal treatment under the law
Think and Discuss
Why do you think it's important for a constitution to limit government power? How do the three branches of government work together? What rights do you think are most important for kids your age?
The Texas Constitution Today
Still guides our state government after 147 years Has been amended (changed) many times Protects all Texans' rights and freedoms You can learn more and even help shape its future when you're older